Exodus 23:15 Meaning and Explanation
“Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:)”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Abib, eating unleavened bread for seven days and not appearing before God empty-handed.
The Context of Exodus 23:15
Laws establishing the Feast of Unleavened Bread as the first pilgrimage festival.
What Does Exodus 23:15 Mean?
The first feast celebrates and commemorates the exodus from Egypt, when the people left in haste without time for dough to rise. Eating unleavened bread for seven days is a physical, repeated reminder of God's rescue. The feast anchors Israel's identity in liberation.
No one approaches God's presence empty-handed; all must bring an offering. This requirement ensures even the poorest participate with generosity, giving what they can.
Exodus 23:15 in the Original Language
matsah (מַצָּה), 'unleavened bread'—bread without yeast or rising agent, symbolizing the hasty departure from Egypt and absence of corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 23:15
What does Exodus 23:15 mean?
Keep the Feast of Unleavened Bread in Abib, eating unleavened bread for seven days and not appearing before God empty-handed.
What is the context of Exodus 23:15?
Laws establishing the Feast of Unleavened Bread as the first pilgrimage festival.